What does luxury mean to your clients?
KWC: They want the best of the best accommodations, seamless experiences (i.e airport meet and greet, private car/driver at disposal during the day) and they expect great service, and sustainable touches as standard. Privatized tours and special access are also a luxury, and requested more and more. Convenience is also key – so we have a number of clients who fly private jets during the trip, especially if the leg would be then direct versus a connecting commercial option.
It is still so subjective though – I have some clients doing a three-month trip in New Zealand as they want to embrace ‘slow travel’ – so while not every single stop is uber luxury and they are self-driving, they are staying at nice apartments and we have sprinkled in some luxury lodges in between. Being away from home and exploring a new country, at a leisurely place to get a deeper understanding of the region is a huge luxury to them.
For some clients, luxury is the ability to choose and try something new. I have some new-to-cruisers going this year, and they usually take very nice suites at hotels, so now they are taking a Residence on Explora Journeys and I think they are going to love it.
CL: Luxury to my clients means upgraded air, private luxury transfers, a seamless vacation experience in exquisite tropical locations. They are unwinding, disconnecting from tech, and reconnecting with each other. The luxury of having a travel advisor who knows what they want, anticipates their needs and is available for high-touch personalized service is also part of the overall experience.
What trends are you noticing when it comes to your luxury bookings?
CL: A common trend I am seeing with my luxury clients is trip stacking. Many of my clients vacation several times a year. They often have three to four vacations booked at a time. The most sought after tropical luxury destinations this year are Turks and Caicos, Cap Cana, Isla Mujeres, Antigua and St. Vincent. Experience is more important than the price point for my clients and they are booking top-tier room categories, butler service, private pools and rooms with exceptional views. Gifting travel is also trending for my luxury clients. Multi-generational trips at the Caribbean’s best family resorts.
What are the most luxe trips you’re booking right now?
KWC: My top booking right now (and ever) is a 36-day, around-the-world by private jet, fully custom trip for three couples across 10 countries with 12 stops. The best suites or private villas for each stop and private touring and unique and memorable private dining experiences.
Another trip I have just booked is a two week Australia and New Zealand highlight trip for two couples and they’re staying at the top lodges and hotels, and flying privately on some legs.
What’s the price tag of some of these bookings?
KWC: The Australia + New Zealand trip is over $200,000 for two weeks. My around-the-world trip is going to cost the clients over US$1 million. Insane! To be fair, half is just on the jets alone (which is low margin/I may not end up getting it as he has another long term broker) but it’s fun to work on this amazing trip, with the best-of-the-best for every single stop.
CL: The price range for the most luxurious trips I’m booking are approx. $8,500/$10,000 per couple and $30,000 to $100,000 for family and multi-generational trips.
